Dog Days: Most appropriately for this first day of August, we lead with this study from the University of California at Davis: its findings suggest that dogs are probably much cleverer than most people think. So we asked our top-dog in Washington, Cosmo-the-wonder-dog for his opinion. His advice: roll-over and sleep in an extra hour this morning.

Yawnnnnn...... Such a-do over nothing, over something that's still nothing. The NYTimes thought so much of this no-starter it sent out press notices proclaiming its 'investigative' reporters spared nothing in bringing you this headline: Questions on Halliburton Deal Under Cheney. Overall, this tale reads like a worthy fishing expedition that came up empty--and yet still got Page One play. Another reason to roll-on-over.

Some morning give and take: Yesterday, on the Today Show, Phoenix's team of police officers and firefighters beat St. Louis' in a televised match-up of physical agility and strength only to have their victory rescinded after a rematch was ordered over claims of malfunctioning locks. In the latest re-match of the cable-news-networks - Fox News Channel easily retained their title with the most viewers.

Just asking...What do these two have in common besides their 'hair'? While one is asking for his freedom his lone supporter seems to be asking 'for it'. Mrs. 'Gar' says her husband absolutely, positively did not have an affair with Chandra Levy. While the expelled-one is still running for office from his jail cell, what's Condit 'do-ing'?

Who's the greatest? That "wascally wabbit," who's faced down Elmer Fudd, Marvin the Martian and Yosemite Sam, has come out on top again: According to the latest issue of TV Guide, Bugs Bunny is the greatest cartoon character of all time.

That's All Folks!: Returning tomorrow - your fully re-patriated-LComStaff-Live-from-NewYork. Igor, Wascally and I await your next visit.

-For Your-LComStaff-on-special-assignment, Amy Sheehan.